Overview
- A robotic vacuum exploded inside a Brabham home, blowing out windows, blackening walls and sparking a fire that spread from the kitchen to the living area and left occupants displaced.
- The 25-year-old homeowner, Lachie Perrem, was rushed to Fiona Stanley Hospital with burns to about 75 percent of his body and remains sedated in critical condition after multiple operations.
- Fire investigators told reporters they believe a fault in the vacuum caused the blast and the appliance has been taken for inspection by the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety and building and energy inspectors.
- Family and friends set up a GoFundMe to cover medical and living costs, which has raised about $17,000–$18,600 as the household faces major damage and ongoing bills.
- Authorities say vacuum-ignited fires are rare but noted three similar incidents in Western Australia in the past two years, and investigators’ findings could prompt consumer warnings or regulatory action.